Jamie Howlett sat by himself under the press box Sunday afternoon, removing his gear following a third attempt in the bareback competition. Sweat was still dripping down his face, his hand wrapped tight after his horse fell on him in his first attempt. With all of the distractions around, Howlett had one thing on his mind.

Evergreen Rodeo president Dave Marshall stood near the press box on Sunday afternoon with a big smile on his face. Marshall’s daughter had just been named queen for the 2018 Evergreen Rodeo, but another reason to smile was the huge crowd turnout both days.